Lawmakers debate whether to buy new Neb. plane

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Lawmakers have begun a debate over whether to buy, lease or charter a new airplane for Nebraska state officials.

The proposal discussed Wednesday would allow the state to acquire a plane to replace its 1982 Piper Cheyenne aircraft.

A legislative consultant recommends buying a new twin-engine King Air model that can carry five passengers and two pilots. It could cost as much as $3.8 million, though money from other aircraft sales would likely reduce that cost.

Sen. Bob Krist, a pilot and Air Force veteran, says the state should buy new because leasing and chartering could cost more over the long-term. Krist says a new plane would have better safety features, and would retain more of its value after its recommended 20-year lifespan has expired.

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The bill is LB1016

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